Making a difference through technology

According to the division of special education website, IDEA defines an assistive technology device as: “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. [20 U.S.C. Chapter 33, Section 1401 (25)]. This definition is broad and includes a range of devices from low technology to high technology items as well as software” (Division of Special Education, 2015). 

Who picks up the cost for these items? Understood.org explains, in this case it would depend on how much the school or doctor says the learning disability will affect the child in the classroom. If the child qualifies for special education program and the required AT device is listed in the IEP or the 504 plan, the student has no cost. Other possibilities to assist the student include the following: Health Insurer, non-profits and low interest loans; however there are many limitations (Understood.org, 2014).

How can technology help our student’s in today’s classroom? As educators we have to be aware of the different types of technology available for our students with special needs. These devices are lifeline tools for some students. Ms. Martini who was pictured in the video explains how important her devices are as such: “without my chair I can’t get around, without my computer I can’t do my homework, with out my phone, I can’t call for help”(edutopia, 2015).

Teacher’s need to be aware of the types of devices their student’s have. This will help the teacher understand the needs of the student. It will also help the teacher train on the device so he/she will be able to better assist the student.

When preparing lessons plans we must always include accommodations for our students. The beauty of a lesson plan is that it can always be adjusted to fit the need of the student. The earlier the teacher knows about the students needs, he/she can be sure to get the necessary tools to help make the lesson a success for all students in the classroom.

Imagine, if all our students who require these devices actually have them in the classrooms, how exciting will this be for both student and teacher! Eight different AT devices for your students.

https://app.emaze.com/@ALZTZLWI/assistive-technology#1

References

Assistive Technology - DIVISION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION (Assistive Technology - DIVISION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION), Retrieved, June 26, 2015, from

https://sites.google.com/a/gdoe.net/special-education/part-b/related-services/assistive-technology

How Assistive Technology Enables Dreams (Edutopia), Retrieved, June 26, 2015 from

http://www.edutopia.org/assistive-technology-enabling-dreams-video

Who Pays for Assistive Technology? Parents or Schools? (2014, February 24). Retrieved June 26, 2015, from https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/assistive-technology/assistive-
technologies-basics/who-pays-for-assistive-technology-parents-or-schools